Will and Alec, the two youths from London (UK) that was trained by Arsenal GAP Year are back in Manica. After spending 5 weeks at GDM in 2008, the two (joint nickname Walec) is back in Manica, to the delight of the town.

Their trip is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, and they are focusing, not only on football techniques, but specifically training the coaches and presenting life-skills interventions to youths younger than 15 years. This year, through liaising with the Provincial Football Association, Walec and GDM has also been conducting interventions outside of the town and district of Manica, with the first sessions being conducted in the Provincial capital of Chimoio.

Will and Alec are also helping with management capacity building and general day to day duties around the club.

The biggest gift they give though, is that of their friendship. The impact they are having in Manica as friends and role-models is very important to those youths that work and play with them every day. Perhaps it is fitting to conclude this article with the words of Walec:

"My experience of GDM has had a huge impact on my life, I feel that it has really opened my eyes to the world and the way in which I see and do things now. GDM is so much more than just a football club, its role in the community is inspiring. The atmosphere in the town on the day of a match is fantastic to be around, you can tell that the people of Manica are proud of their club, and rightly so. It really has changed the way in which I see my life now, and I can not wait to go back next month! Adepto Para Sempre!"

- Alec Norton

"Manica opened my eyes to the real world. It is very difficult to explain the feeling that Manica gives you when you spend a period of time there. The best thing to do is just experience it yourself because there are no words to describe it. Because of Manica I now know what I want to do in the future and achieve in other places what has been achieved in Manica."

- William Stone